Activist, commentator and broadcaster. Passionate about social justice and mental health issues.
Email me at yaqoobsalma2@gmail.com to continue the dialogue...

Tuesday, 13 June 2017

"I am proud of all the people I have met throughout this campaign."

Whilst I am naturally disappointed with the result, I respect the choiceBradford West has made. Nationally, Jeremy Corbyn has achieved a significant victory with people voting in droves for the Labour leader. I welcome that. This country needs a change. It is heartbreaking that under a Tory government 30,000 children in Bradford live below the poverty line and hard working families are forced to go through the indignity of relying on food-banks for basic meals. All this in the name of austerity - when in fact the richest in this country have grown richer, and the poorest have gotten poorer.

There is a beautiful community spirit in Bradford which is insufficiently acknowledged and supported. I am proud that through our campaign we galvanised Bradford West - people stood up, challenged the status quo and fought for positive change. We asked hard questions and I truly believe the people of Bradford West are better for it. We have raised the levels of accountability and transparency, and demanded positive change. This will continue.

MP Naz Shah has a remarkable opportunity now to listen to her constituency and serve them all, whether they supported her or not.

I am proud of all the people I have met throughout this campaign - you greeted me with a smile, showered me with your love and showed me your unwavering support.

I would like to thank each and everything one of you, and every single member of my team and every volunteer who helped during my campaign. You have all been amazing!